Irish TD urges TikTok to reconsider committee invite on illegal videos

Alan Kelly, chair of the Oireachtas committee on media, has called on TikTok to reverse its decision to decline an invitation to a committee meeting discussing the posting of illegal criminal videos on the platform. TikTok had stated it felt it could not attend due to ongoing investigations into a recent M9 motorway crash and a Coimisiún na Meán examination of related social media content.

The social media giant also expressed that it would be inappropriate for them to be the sole platform present, suggesting a private meeting instead. However, Kelly voiced his disappointment, urging TikTok to reconsider its stance. "I am deeply disappointed by your response and TikTok's refusal to engage with the committee in public session, and urge you to reconsider," he wrote in a letter.

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I am deeply disappointed by your response and TikTok's refusal to engage with the committee in public session, and urge you to reconsider.

In response to TikTok's refusal, Kelly announced that other major platforms, including Google, Meta, and X, will now be invited to attend the committee meeting. This broader invitation aims to address the significant public concern surrounding online content that promotes criminal activity. The committee will outline detailed rules for attendance and information to be provided during public sessions.

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The committee again invites you and/or any other relevant representatives from your organisation to a meeting of the committee in public session to discuss the following topic - online content promoting criminal activity.